Local & Community

DSRT Surf Job Fair: Palm Desert’s Massive 9-Million Gallon Surf Lagoon Set to Open in July

PALM DESERT, CA — A project over a decade in the making is finally reaching the finish line. DSRT Surf, located adjacent to the Desert Willow Golf Resort, is officially entering its final hiring phase ahead of a planned July 2026 grand opening.

As reported by NBC Palm Springs' Kaitlin Kelley, the development is currently hosting a wide-ranging job fair. Developers are seeking a diverse team to staff what will be a record-setting addition to the Coachella Valley’s economy.

Now Hiring: "Energy and Vibes" Wanted

The recruitment effort is open to applicants of all experience levels. Available positions include:

  • Water Safety: Lifeguards, surf instructors, and surf coaches.

  • Service: Food and beverage professionals and hospitality staff.

  • Operations: Facilities maintenance and groundskeeping.

Applicants are encouraged to bring their resumes and high energy to the Desert Willow Golf Resort as the park prepares to welcome visitors from "coast to coast."

World-Class Tech & Sustainability

DSRT Surf is anchored by the largest man-made surf lagoon in the United States, utilizing world-class Wavegarden Cove technology.

  • Capacity: The lagoon holds nearly 9 million gallons of water.

  • "Turf for Surf": To address California's water concerns, developers implemented a sustainability program that converted 30 acres of golf turf into drought-tolerant landscaping.

  • Net-Zero Impact: The water saved through this conversion allows the surf park to operate with a net-zero water usage impact, consuming less water annually than a single hole of traditional golf.


Weather Alert: Extreme Heat for Mother’s Day Weekend

While the prospect of a 5.5-acre surf lagoon is refreshing, local residents are currently facing a dangerous spike in temperatures.

An Extreme Heat Warning is in effect for the Coachella Valley starting this weekend. As a strong ridge of high pressure expands over the Southwest, residents should prepare for:

  • Friday/Saturday: Highs climbing into the lower 100s.

  • Mother's Day (Sunday): Forecasted peak of 106°F.

  • Monday Outlook: Temperatures could reach a scorching 110°F, marking the peak of this early-season heatwave.

Authorities urge those attending outdoor events or the DSRT Surf job fair to stay hydrated, limit sun exposure, and check on elderly neighbors as the triple-digit heat settles in for the next several days.

Explore NBCPalmSprings.com, where we are connecting the valley.

By: Caitlyn Kelley

May 8, 2026

DSRT Surf job fair May 2026Palm Desert surf lagoon openingDesert Willow Golf Resort surf parkTurf for Surf program water conservationKaitlin Kelley NBC Palm SpringsCoachella Valley extreme heat warning Mothers Day 2026surf coach jobs Palm DesertWavegarden Cove technology California
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